Student moves can feel like equal parts freedom and like you’ve hit financial ruin. On one hand, you’re buzzing. New place, new people, maybe you’re ready for some new housemates, or finally upgrading to a room that isn’t the size of a shoebox. It’s a fresh start. A whole new version of your uni life is opening up.
But then there’s the other side: the part where leases overlap, your budget suddenly feels very real, you’re not sure what furniture is included, and you still need to pack your entire life before O-Week sneaks up on you.
If you’re sitting in that in-between space, you’re not alone. In this guide, we walk you through everything you need to know and strip back the moving madness.
Choosing where you’re going to live is more than just finding a roof over your head. It sets the tone for your whole uni experience. There are several options to choose from, each with its pros and cons.
If you want to feel the daily buzz of campus life and the chance to meet a heap of people right away, options like university halls and on-site campus and university accommodation are a solid choice.
The great thing about campus life is that most places come with furniture, internet, and even cleaning. You can literally move in with your suitcase.
Just remember, the trade-offs include shared bathrooms, an inability to choose who you are in close quarters with, and move-in / move-out dates that won’t bend to your schedule.
If independence is more your style, a student apartment might be the sweet spot for you. This option offers space and privacy, but be sure to check what’s actually included before you sign anything. Things like furniture, internet and utilities all add up fast, so you’ll want to go into an agreement with your eyes wide open.
For the ultimate student living experience, a shared house is hard to beat. It’s social, usually cheaper than other options, and a crash course in managing bills and living with others. Things run smoothly when everyone pulls their weight, chips in around the house, and respects boundaries. If that doesn’t happen, chaos can follow. But when it works, it’s one of the fastest ways to make friends and save a heap on living costs.
For a deeper dive into student accommodation, you can also explore our city-specific guides.
Tip: don’t overpack, there’s usually space to buy what you need once you’re in.
Timing is everything when it comes to moving as a student. Most moves occur right before the semester kicks off in January and February. This means everyone and their mum is trying to move at the same time. Leases overlap, parents are juggling flights and car trips, and suddenly, moving day feels like a military operation.
Start by mapping out your move well in advance.
Even a rough plan makes a huge difference. Trust us, it is way easier than realising three days before your lease ends that your desk doesn’t fit in the car.
If you’re moving interstate or want to save yourself the headache of lugging everything around, professional moving teams can be a lifesaver. They handle all the heavy lifting and can even do smaller moves to your dorm room or studio. Most also come with insurance in case anything goes wrong during transit.
Using a student moving services platform like Upmove makes it simple to compare quotes and book the right team that fits your schedule and budget.
There’s always an awkward in-between phase when the uni year ends and the next semester hasn’t started yet. Leases finish up, and most students head home for Christmas, spend some time travelling over summer, or crash with parents for the holidays to save a few dollars.
So if you’re between accommodations, what do you do with all your stuff?
Short of cramming your desk, bedding, and bookshelf into the back of your car, the easiest option is short-term storage. And it doesn’t have to break the bank.
You can stash your stuff safely and affordably without worrying about rent piling up on a room you’re not using. Shared storage units, on-campus solutions, or self-storage facilities near your university are all great options.
This is a mobile student‑storage service that operates in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, and Perth. They deliver a TAXIBOX to your place. You pack it up, lock it, and they pick it up and store it for you.
As it’s modular and flexible, it’s super handy when you're moving out for a few weeks or until the next semester.
The cost varies by size. For example, a small-to-medium-sized option, self-storage costs from AU$50 to $250 per month nationally, depending on unit size and city.
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In Melbourne, Storage Plus rates start very reasonably. They list 1x1m lockers from about AU$69 per month.
Thanks to their student special, you have 25% off for your first three months when you show a student ID.
We Store It's student storage rate starts at around AU$4.28 per day, which works out well if you only need it for a few weeks. They also do mobile-style student storage.
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If you’re studying in Adelaide, Self Storage Australia is a reliable local option, and their facilities offer 24/7 security. Units start from about $70/month.
Rent a Space offers a variety of unit sizes, including ‘student lockers’. Features include alarmed units, CCTV, and a covered loading area. This facility is just over the ACT border (Crestwood).
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Ideal for students, Budget Box drops off a container, you load it up, they pick it up, and store it. Very convenient if you don’t want to lug things to a fixed facility.
Get expert tips on choosing the right storage facility for your needs and budget.
Moving isn’t just about shifting boxes from A to B. It’s heavy, stressful, and somehow always ends up taking longer than you expect. Professional student movers make the entire process easier and faster, and ultimately less of a headache.
Whether it’s a tiny dorm room or a full share house, movers get it done quickly and efficiently. And because most services are insured, you don’t have to stress if a box falls, a chair scratches, or a bookshelf takes a tumble.
Not every student needs a full truckload. Many moving companies offer small-load moves, specifically designed for dorm rooms, studios, or single-bedroom apartments. That means you only pay for what you actually need, and you don’t have to wrangle a van or beg friends for help.
Let’s be honest, moving during exams or assignment season is a recipe for chaos. Hiring movers takes the stress off your plate, so you can focus on studying, sleeping, and surviving the semester without worrying about whether your bedframe will fit through the door.
Using a platform like Upmove makes this even easier. You can compare multiple quotes from trusted movers in one place, and book the right team for your schedule and budget.
Before you start packing, take a moment to sort through your stuff. Sell anything still in good shape, donate what you don’t need, and recycle the rest. Not only does this lighten your load, but it also means you won’t be lugging things you’ll never use.
Less stuff, less stress, and maybe even a few extra dollars in your pocket.
Check out our Decluttering tips for more info on what to keep and what to clear before you move.
Usually, a week or two before the semester starts. Always double-check your lease or halls schedule.
Most residences close over the break. Check with your res office if you need summer access.
Speak to your landlord and discuss your options. This could be subletting to someone else, finding someone to take over, or negotiating an early exit.
Budget, declutter, sell what you don’t need, and compare movers to save money.
Whether you’re heading interstate or just around the corner, Upmove student moving services make things easy and affordable. Compare quotes from trusted student removalists in one place and book the team that gets the job done without the stress.
Upmove is Australia’s trusted choice for removalist and moving company services, helping thousands of customers move homes, furniture, cars, motorcycles, and more. Since 2017, we’ve been delivering reliable, affordable, and well-reviewed moving services across Australia. Our focus has always been on making moving simple and stress-free — from booking experienced removalists to completing your delivery with care. With Upmove, you get professional service, fixed prices, and peace of mind on every move.
Upmove acknowledges Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
